The landlord of The Smithy, in Coulby Newham, was struck twice in the face during the assault on Saturday night.

The incident occurred at around 8.45pm after a man and two women walked in, a Cleveland Police spokeswoman said. "One person damaged property and one other hit him twice in the face with a baseball bat. An ambulance was called," she said.

Call PC Bob Jackson on 01642 303126 if you witnessed the incident or have information.